Immigration Terms and Definitions

Principal Alien
The alien who applies for immigrant status and from whom another alien may derive lawful status under immigration law or regulations (usually spouses and minor unmarried children).

Immigration Form I-698
Application to Adjust Status From Temporary to Permanent Reside

Immigration Form I-90
Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card

Country of Chargeability
The country in which a person is born (and has not renounced or lost citizenship) or naturalized and to which that person owes allegiance and by which he or she is entitled to be protected.

Country of (Last) Residence
The country in which an alien habitually resided prior to entering the United States.

Adjustment to Immigrant Status
Procedure allowing certain aliens already in the United States to apply for immigrant status. Aliens admitted to the United States in a nonimmigrant, refugee, or parolee category may have their status changed to that of lawful permanent resident if they are eligible to receive an immigrant visa and one is immediately available.

Legalized Aliens
Certain illegal aliens who were eligible to apply for temporary resident status under the legalization provision of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.

Immigration Form I-864A
Affidavit of Support Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member

Country of Nationality
The country of a person’s citizenship or country in which the person is deemed a national.

Alien
Any person not a citizen or national of the United States.